In Hindu mythology, God creates, sustains, and destroys the world as Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Brahma is so attached to the world he has created that he forgets why he created it. He ends up identifying himself with it.

Vishnu, full of guile and smiles, engages with the creation but does not attach himself to it. Thus he creates balance, harmony.

Shiva is disengaged and disinterested, shutting his eyes and refusing to be enchanted by the creation. He knows who he is and such is his withdrawal that the spiritual fire known as tapa which generates heat is ignited within. All this heat remains trapped within the body and so the landscape around him turns icy cold and desolate, supporting no life. Shiva’s indifference makes him destroyer.

Pattanaik